These Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on the classic dish! Juicy chicken mixed with marinara and topped with melty cheese, all tucked inside fresh zucchini.
Seriously, who knew veggies could be so tasty? I love how these boats are low-carb and quick to make, making them perfect for busy nights when I still want something yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the dish! Look for medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and unblemished. If you can’t find zucchinis, eggplants or bell peppers can be great substitutes for the “boating!”.
Cooked Chicken: I often use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or lentils instead.
Marinara Sauce: A sugar-free marinara keeps it keto-friendly. If you want to make your sauce from scratch, simply blend tomatoes with Italian herbs! Any tomato-based sauce can be used if you’re okay with a bit of sugar.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its melty goodness, but if you’re lactose intolerant, vegan cheese works too. Nutritional yeast is excellent for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
How Do I Make Zucchini Boats Without Sogginess?
Keeping zucchini boats from getting soggy is key! Here’s how:
- Start by salting the hollowed-out zucchini halves. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes, then pat dry. This helps reduce moisture.
- Par-bake the zucchini for 10 minutes before adding the filling. This gives them a slight pre-cook so they won’t release too much water later.
- Don’t overload with sauce; stick to the filling amount for best results!
Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and healthy meal perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure your zucchinis cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create “boats.” Aim to leave about a 1/4-inch thick shell, so they hold up nicely while baking. Set the scooped flesh aside for later.
3. Make the Chicken Filling:
In a bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, sugar-free marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the reserved zucchini flesh (finely chopped). This will be the delicious filling for your boats!
4. Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
Drizzle a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking, then place the zucchini boats cut side up in the dish. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each boat. Don’t be shy—load them up!
5. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Generously top each boat with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. The more cheese, the better!
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchinis are tender but not mushy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty keto meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchinis are perfect for this recipe, you can also use eggplants, bell peppers, or even hollowed tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since some vegetables may take longer to become tender.
Can I Prepare These Zucchini Boats in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the zucchini and the chicken mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply fill the zucchini boats and bake them. They can be made a day in advance for a quicker dinner option!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will keep the texture nicer.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Certainly! You can replace the chicken with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings in the filling to your taste. It’ll still be delicious and keto-friendly!
